Transparent Microelectrode Arrays for Hybrid Experiments in Neuroscience [BPN726]Optogenetics techniques that have been developed over the previous decade allow cell-type
specific optical stimulation of neurons in-vivo. However, it remains a challenge to perform
simultaneous electrical recording while providing optical stimulation due to photoelectric artifact
generated at the microelectrode recording sites. This project aims to address this challenge by
developing bio- compatible microelectrode arrays with optically transparent recording sites.
Current devices are optimized for performing electrocorticography (ECoG) experiments and use
Indium-Tin Oxide (ITO, a transparent conductive oxide) as the electrode material. Preliminary
characterization of the arrays indicate electrode impedances as low as 100kOhm and show no
photoelectric artifact. These micro- ECoG (uECoG) arrays are currently being validated in a variety
of novel hybrid neuroscience experiments combining optical stimulation with electrical recording,
both at Berkeley and with collaborators at other universities.